James Meyers
Major: Computer Science
I love learning about computer science and cybersecurity, and I hope to have a career in the field one day. I also enjoy playing and making music, as well as golfing.
SVSU NASA Lunabotics Club
The Saginaw Valley State University Lunabotics Team is a multidisciplinary student organization focused on designing, building, and testing an autonomous lunar excavation rover for NASA’s Lunabotics Challenge at Kennedy Space Center. This international competition challenges university teams to develop innovative robotic systems capable of operating in a simulated lunar environment—navigating rugged terrain, excavating lunar regolith and depositing it in a designated area, much like the technologies needed to support NASA’s Artemis missions and future lunar exploration.
At SVSU, students from a wide range of academic backgrounds collaborate throughout the year on research, engineering design, prototyping, fabrication, programming and system testing. Beyond the technical work, the team engages with industry partners, develops sponsorships and participates in STEM outreach, all while building real-world skills that prepare them for careers in aerospace, robotics and advanced engineering.
Through hands-on experience and teamwork, the Lunabotics program empowers students to innovate, solve complex challenges and contribute to the future of space exploration.
NASA Lunabotics Team Bios
Tausif Ahmed
Major: Computer Science
I’m a Computer Science student interested in robotics and autonomous systems. I enjoy working on different projects and gaining new skills along the way.
Nazifa Islam
Major: Computer Science
I am a third-year Computer Science major, and I enjoy building full-stack applications for engineering projects. Beyond programming, I like traveling and watching films.
Gabriel Rathke Bartholomay
Major: Computer Science
I’m a Computer Science student passionate about robotics, full-stack development and building systems that solve real-world problems. I enjoy leading collaborative teams and turning complex ideas into practical, innovative solutions.
Allana
Major: Mechanical Engineering
I am a third-year Mechanical Engineering student from Brazil and a refounder of the Lunabotics Club, where I lead the mechanical team. In my free time, I enjoy good coffee and reading books.
Diego Mijares
Team: Mechanical Team
Hello, I'm Diego Mijares, and I'm part of the Mechanical Team of the Lunabotics Club. I love working on hands-on projects like this one and enjoy playing pickleball and tennis in my free time.
Nadia Islam
Major: Mechanical Engineering
I’m a freshman who loves being part of this team and learning the many different aspects of a project while contributing to the team’s goals. I enjoy graphics, writing, culture and photography.
Alexander Rineer
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
I graduate in May 2026, and I have a professional interest in optics and transportation infrastructure.
Kyle Weiss
Major: Electrical Engineering
Electrical hardware engineer and control system designer.
Gunnar Buhr
Major: Electrical Engineering
I am 23 years old, and some hobbies I enjoy are racing dirt bikes in the summer all over the eastern United States, as well as hunting ducks and deer in the fall. I enjoy spending time with good friends and surrounding myself with hardworking people.
Timothy Roberts
Major: Electrical Engineering
Engineering student with a passion for robotics, problem-solving and hands-on design. Excited to apply creativity and teamwork to develop solutions for NASA’s Lunabotics competition.
Nicholas A. Danley
Major: Electrical Engineering
I am an Electrical Engineering student at SVSU and am very new to the field. I am finding a passion in understanding and applying electrical components. Outside of engineering, I enjoy playing rugby and occasionally going to the gym.
Mohammed Waliul Aziz Alif
Major: Computer Engineering
I am a Computer Engineering student at SVSU and currently serve as the President and Project Manager for the Lunabotics team. I am passionate about robotics and embedded systems. Outside of engineering, I enjoy playing guitar and swimming.
Progga Mazumder
Major: Public Health (Promotion Track)
Minor: Emergency Management
I’m a non-engineering member of the Lunabotics team and serve as the Assistant Task Manager. Joining has been one of the most rewarding parts of my college experience, and I love learning from the engineers around me while bringing my own perspective to the team. In my free time, I enjoy exploring cafés and taking small trips with friends and family.